Given the Memphis Grizzlies falling short of the playoffs, it’s safe to say the Miami Heat DEFINITELY won the Justise Winslow trade.
Everyone knows the many narratives behind that Justise Winslow-for-Andre Iguodala deal that saw the Memphis Grizzlies and Miami Heat gear up for the future. But for Pat Riley and his front office, it’s directly impacted this year’s team more than expected.
Miami sent Memphis James Johnson and Dion Waiters as well but received veteran wings Jae Crowder and Solomon Hill in addition to Iguodala. Those two were seeing plenty of minutes and played key roles for the Heat in their eight seeding games.
While Winslow’s absence from the Grizzlies, due to yet another injury for the 24-year old, served a role (albeit small) in their falling short of the postseason out West. The second half to their young and upcoming duo, Jaren Jackson Jr, was ruled out after tearing his MCL.
Crowder has been one of Miami’s best three-point shooters, especially in the seeding games. He’s averaging 11.7 points and 4.4 rebounds while knocking down 56 percent of his deep shots.
Hill didn’t see as much time, but against the Indiana Pacers, scored 21 and grabbed seven rebounds. If they suffer any more injuries like that of Derrick Jones Jr, they may call on his number in a key game of the postseason. Expect him to be ready for that.
When you combine that with the versatile, well-rested Andre Iguodala’s play, it’s clear that there’s no longer any debate as to who won the trade between Memphis and Miami in February.
Now that they’ve wrapped up the regular season, the Miami Heat are getting ready to take on the Indiana Pacers in round one of the playoffs. Game one is on Tuesday, with tip-off scheduled for 4:00 pm est. Coverage will be provided by TNT and TNT Overtime.